I have been married for almost 25 years and even though my husband has seen me having a catheter fitted, changed my maternity sanitary pads for me after my first C-section and, of course, seen me naked LOTS of times (which would put most adults off their dinner) it can still be tricky to bring up a sensitive subject for discussion, especially if it's something to do with sex.
So, in case any of you are wondering how to tackle a tricky subject without too many blushes, here are some suggestions to make difficult conversations a little easier.
1. Choose the right moment
Discussing a sensitive topic is never easy, so it’s important that you choose the right moment to bring it up in conversation. Pick a time when you’re both feeling relaxed, and choose a private setting in which you both feel comfortable and at ease. If you can, avoid approaching the subject when your partner is stressed or busy as you might just make matters worse.
2. Do some research
Before you sit down to have a chat with your other half, you could take the time to do some research. This is especially useful if you’re already aware of what the problem is but you want to understand it in more depth ahead of the conversation.
Discussing a sensitive topic is never easy, so it’s important that you choose the right moment to bring it up in conversation. Pick a time when you’re both feeling relaxed, and choose a private setting in which you both feel comfortable and at ease. If you can, avoid approaching the subject when your partner is stressed or busy as you might just make matters worse.
2. Do some research
Before you sit down to have a chat with your other half, you could take the time to do some research. This is especially useful if you’re already aware of what the problem is but you want to understand it in more depth ahead of the conversation.
For example, if your partner is suffering from an intimate
health issue, such as erectile dysfunction (ED), it could help to read up on
the condition. ED is a problem that many men suffer with, however it can be
extremely difficult to talk about. But, if you’re clued up on the subject, this
could help your other half to open up and it will allow you to be even more
helpful and supportive.
When you’re carrying out your research, you could look
into the causes of it, as well as how it can be treated. The good news is,
there are a number of effective medicines your partner could use to tackle
their ED. From your research, you should find that you can get treatments such
as sildenafil citrate and tadalafil
from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor and other trusted online sources,
eliminating the need for any embarrassing face-to-face conversations with a
doctor.
By having a clear understanding of the problem and what can be done to
solve it, you should be able to put your partner’s mind at ease.
3. Be sensitive
When you’re talking to your significant other about a difficult issue, it’s crucial that you’re as sensitive as possible. Regardless of the problem, it’s important that you’re fully supportive and that you do what you can to show you care.
3. Be sensitive
When you’re talking to your significant other about a difficult issue, it’s crucial that you’re as sensitive as possible. Regardless of the problem, it’s important that you’re fully supportive and that you do what you can to show you care.
If your partner is finding it particularly hard to speak up, try your
best to be patient. These types of discussions can be challenging and
emotional, so avoid getting frustrated if it takes a while to get the
conversation flowing. Showing your other half compassion and understanding
should help them to open up in their own time, giving you the opportunity to
offer them the support they need.
4. Don’t forget to listen
During a tricky conversation, listening is a must. Paying attention to what your partner has to say is key and will help you get to the bottom of the problem. While you’re chatting, try to stop yourself from interrupting. Even if you think of something to say, don’t butt in when your other half is mid-sentence. If you can, wait until they have finished before you pitch in with your next comment.
4. Don’t forget to listen
During a tricky conversation, listening is a must. Paying attention to what your partner has to say is key and will help you get to the bottom of the problem. While you’re chatting, try to stop yourself from interrupting. Even if you think of something to say, don’t butt in when your other half is mid-sentence. If you can, wait until they have finished before you pitch in with your next comment.
Staying present in the moment is vital, and make sure
you’re absorbing everything your partner is saying. Lending your ear is a great
way to fully understand how they’re feeling, as well as allowing you to figure
out what you can do to help.
Although talking about certain issues can be tricky, these tips should help make the process a little easier for both you and your partner. Good luck!
Although talking about certain issues can be tricky, these tips should help make the process a little easier for both you and your partner. Good luck!
Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with LloydsPharmacy.